CDMA vs. GSM; and about handsets

While researching on internet to decide about my new handset, I did get to know a lot about lots of terms, differences between GSM and CDMA technologies, and about the handsets. This post is under-construction, and will be updated (hopefully!). Here are some of the terms..

BREW

In short: It allows developers to write applications for CDMA handsets, and allows users with BREW-enabled handsets to download and use these applications.

Details: (Binary Runtime Environment for Wireless) is Qualcomm's open source application development platform for wireless devices equipped for code division multiple access (CDMA) technology.

BREW makes it possible for developers to create portable applications that will work on any handsets equipped with CDMA chipsets. Because BREW runs in between the application and the chip operating system software, the application can use the device's functionality without the developer needing to code to the system interface or even having to understand wireless applications. Users can download applications - such as text chat, enhanced e-mail, location positioning, games (both online and offline), and Internet radio - from carrier networks to any BREW-enabled phone.

BREW is competing for wireless software market share with J2ME (Java 2 Micro Edition), a similar platform from Sun Microsystems. The initial version of BREW is solely for CDMA networks; later versions could be enabled for time division multiple access (TDMA) and Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) networks.

RUIM

In short: RUIM card is equivalent of SIM card used in GSM handsets. All CDMA handsets do not have RUIM card.

Details: A RUIM card (also R-UIM) or Re-Usable Identification Module, is a removable ID chip for cellular phones made for the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network. The RUIM card holds a user's personal information such as name and account number, cell phone number, phone book, text messages and other settings.

The RUIM card provides flexibility to switch phones by simply removing the RUIM card and slipping it into another card-enabled phone. The new phone would then be able to make and receive calls on the user's account without having to go through the carrier for activation.